Rules & Regulations
Everything that governs the SBA Internal League — game format, eligibility, conduct on and off the court. Modifications follow FIBA Official Basketball Rules with adjustments for youth development.
Code of Conduct
Standards every player, parent and spectator agrees to uphold so the league stays safe, fair and worth showing up to.
Players' Code
- 01
Understand and follow the rules
It is your responsibility to understand and play by the rules. They exist to ensure safety, order, and enjoyment for everyone.
- 02
Respect referees and officials
Referees and officials have a challenging role, and games could not take place without them. Mistakes happen — accept calls graciously and never abuse officials.
- 03
Control your temper
Verbal abuse of officials, opponents, or teammates is not acceptable, nor is deliberately distracting or provoking other players.
- 04
Work hard for yourself and your team
Give your best effort in training and games, both for your own development and for your team.
- 05
Be a good sport
Acknowledge and celebrate good plays — by all players, not just your own team.
- 06
Treat others fairly
Treat all players as you would like to be treated. Avoid bullying or taking unfair advantage.
- 07
Play for enjoyment
Play basketball for the love of the game. Take it seriously, but enjoyment leads to better performance.
- 08
Respect everyone’s rights
Respect the rights, dignity, and worth of all individuals — regardless of gender, ability, cultural background, religion, or any other factor unrelated to the game.
- 09
Be prepared to lose
Winning and losing are both part of sport. Be gracious in victory and respectful in defeat.
- 10
Listen to your coach
Coaches are appointed for their experience and training. Follow their advice in practice and during games to maximise your learning.
- 11
Respect facilities and equipment
Do not hang from hoops or attempt slam dunks — both are banned in most venues, and misuse risks serious injury and damage.
Parents' Code
- 01
Play for their enjoyment
Encourage your children to participate in basketball for their own interest, not to fulfil your expectations.
- 02
Respect the rules
Teach children to always play by the rules. Disregard for rules in sport may carry over to other areas of life.
- 03
Value effort over victory
Help children understand that an honest effort is as important as winning.
- 04
Focus on skill development
Prioritise skill development and enjoyment over the pressure to win.
- 05
Lead by example
Children learn by observing adults. Applaud good play from all teams — not just your child’s.
- 06
Constructive criticism in private
Avoid criticising children in front of others. Give feedback privately, explaining what went wrong and how to improve.
- 07
Respect officials
Accept referees’ decisions as fair and made to the best of their ability. Abuse or criticism of officials is unacceptable.
- 08
Exemplary conduct
Set a positive example through your behaviour and appearance. Avoid criticising opposing teams or supporters.
- 09
Promote a safe and respectful environment
Support efforts to eliminate verbal and physical abuse in sporting activities.
- 10
Respect the rights, dignity and worth of everyone
Respect every person involved in the game, regardless of gender, ability, cultural background, religion, or any factor unrelated to the game.
- 11
Show appreciation
Coaches, officials, and administrators are essential to the league. Showing respect and appreciation encourages a positive environment.
- 12
Keep children in your care under control
Children should remain well-behaved and stay clear of the playing area.
- 13
Respect facilities and equipment
Facilities and equipment are costly and must be treated with care. Discourage children from dangerous practices like hanging from hoops or attempting slam dunks.
Spectators' Code
- 01
Play for enjoyment
Most participants play for enjoyment, not to entertain spectators. Watch the game for your own enjoyment and to support the players.
- 02
Respect officials
Accept the decisions of referees as fair and made to the best of their ability. Abuse or criticism of officials is unacceptable.
- 03
Encourage positive support
Always offer positive encouragement to players. Never ridicule or shout at a player — particularly a young one — for mistakes.
- 04
Reject violence
Condemn all forms of violence. Never encourage players to engage in violent behaviour.
- 05
Respect opponents and spectators
Without opponents, there would be no game; all supporters are there to enjoy it.
- 06
Encourage rule compliance
Encourage players to follow the rules and accept officials’ decisions.
- 07
Model appropriate behaviour
Avoid foul language or harassment toward players, coaches, or officials.
- 08
Respect everyone’s rights
Respect the rights, dignity, and worth of all participants — regardless of gender, ability, cultural background, religion, or any factor unrelated to the game.
- 09
Supervise children
Ensure that children in your care are properly supervised. Venues can present dangers — children should remain well-behaved and stay away from courts.
- 10
Care for facilities and equipment
Respect the facilities and equipment provided. Do not abuse equipment, and discourage dangerous practices such as hanging on hoops.